The aftermath of Tropical Storm Irene is seen in East Haven, Conn., Monday, Aug. 29, 2011. Shoreline residents on Monday picked through the rubble of homes destroyed, hoping to salvage keepsakes as helicopters buzzed overhead and utility crews began the task of restoring power to more than 700,000 homes and businesses across Connecticut. (AP Photo/Jessica Hill)

Gallery: Residents recover from Hurricane Irene damage

Aug. 30, 2011 @ 02:25 PM

NEWFANE, Vt. (AP) -- National Guard helicopters are taking food and water to Vermont towns cut off by flood-damaged roads and bridges.

About a dozen towns in the southern part of the state were rendered inaccessible by vehicular traffic after heavy rainfall from the remnants of Hurricane Irene on Sunday.

About 20,000 Vermont utility customers remain without power, but crews can't begin to restore power until they can reach the affected communities.

Vermont Emergency Management spokesman Mark Bosma says that in addition to Guard helicopters, special trucks are carrying emergency supplies to towns whose roads may be passable for them but not for the public.